Choosing the Right Line Trimmer or Brush Cutter - Key Features

How to Choose - The Key Features

Other  features to look for

We’ve covered the main things to think about when you’re trying to choose a line trimmer – what you’re going to be using it for and petrol vs battery.

But there are a few other features you should look for and factor into your decision-making.

Does it have a rotating head?

Right up at the top of the list… does it have a rotating head? All Honda (petrol) trimmers do, they’re 360 rotatable – it means the trimmer can be swivelled to a vertical position for neatly edging your lawn where it meets the driveway or footpath.

Single or double cutting line?

The cutting line is the bit that does the business – some brands and models use just a single line, and that’s ok but not ideal. Double lines can simply cut more grass with each revolution so they’re more effective and can handle heavier growth. All Honda’s line trimmers use a double line.

How does the cutting line feed?

There are generally three options – fixed line, auto feed, and then bump feed, which releases more line from the spool when you bump the trimmer’s head on the ground.

They also have line-limiting blades mounted on the safety guard that cut the line off if you unspool too much.

How noisy is it?

There’s no such thing as a silent trimmer, thanks to physics. But some are a bit louder than others. Electric trimmers are definitely the quietest, but Honda’s 4-strokes are quieter than most other petrol-powered trimmers. If you’re going to be working early in the morning or somewhere noise is an issue, that’s definitely something to consider. Which reminds me – it’s always best to wear some ear protection when using line trimmers of any kind.

Vibration levels

Physics again. Petrol engines do create some vibration when running, and with some brands that can leave your hands feeling numb after a while. So look for a trimmer with anti-vibration technology built-in. It’s standard equipment on most newer models. And all of Honda’s petrol trimmer range.   

Is it easy to start and stop?

Battery trimmers by their nature start at the push of a button. You just turn them on. Petrol trimmers are a little more involved, but some are easier than others. Honda’s system features an easy and pretty fool proof starting sequence –  with spring-assisted starting which makes pulling the cord a breeze.

Once it’s started, how easy it is to stop? Being able to stop quickly and safely is crucial so look for a stop button that’s within easy reach to kill the motor or engine when you need to.

Is it easy to store and transport?

A small watchout – you don’t want to choose a trimmer that has to be stored and transported in an upright position. A model that is happy being stored in any position is going to make life easier and save you some headaches.

Shoulder Harness

We’ve touched on harnesses before, but it’s worth expanding on why they’re an important feature. The harness takes the weight off your hands and shifts this load to your much more capable shoulders. This makes it less fatiguing so you can get more work done without needing a break. It also helps you keep the trimmer at the required cutting height.

Single or double harnesses are standard equipment with all Honda models.

Handle Adjustability

Another small but significant feature to check for – the front handles should be adjustable, so you can rotate them around the shaft when you flip the cutting head to edge your lawn.

Service and support

Finally, a fundamental thing to ask about when choosing a trimmer is the service and support available. That varies from none for some brands, to the nationwide Honda Outdoors dealer network for  service, parts, and full 4-year Honda warranty support.

Quality makes a difference

Look at your new trimmer as an investment. As with many things, well… you do tend to get what you pay for – in terms of terms of performance and ease of use, and the reliability and lifespan of the trimmer itself. Make the equipment commitment.

Consider paying a bit more for a premium quality trimmer from a brand you know and trust. You won’t regret it for a minute.